Terry Clarke CD Review
Terry Clarke
Big Road: The Caithness Sessions
QPQ 001
****
Another fine album from superlative Country Rock ‘n’ Roll songwriter
Terry Clarke is a human dynamo of Americana who writes more songs than most people have had hot dinners. Given that he usually records in Texas or with kindred spirit Wes McGhee, an album of songs recorded in the wilds of Scotland seems a little out of character. But Terry lived there several years, and his Celtic-tinged soulfulness is at home there. This album was made with father and son team Isaac and John Sutherland, both playing all manner of stringed instruments, and the former also producing.
Yet this isn’t a ‘Scottish’ album, instead creating an atmospheric, electric backdrop to Clarke’s timeless images of rock ‘n’ roll and country sung in his remarkable drawl. This time, though, the references aren’t simply American – there can’t be many songs where you can find name checks for Charlie Rich, Elvis and Loch Fyne, especially a Celtic rockabilly song. Clementines could easily have been recorded in Texas, and there are moments that recall Clarke’s work with late lamented guitarist Jesse Taylor Some of the record is brooding, with quietly screaming electric guitar, some follows Clarke’s wistful style, elsewhere it’s jangling and jaunty. It’s all beautifully played and continues Clarke’s enigmatic path, perhaps the natural progression from the wonderful ROAD TO BIRMINGHAM, a team-up with McGhee. Entrancing from start to finish – and probably the only cool album you’ll ever come across with a mention of Carlisle. Available from www.terryclarke.com or mrlucky@lineone.net Nick Dalton